Delignification – a common finding during Inner West Building and Pest Inspections

Delignification is frighteningly common in Sydney’s inner city and coastal regions. This image was taken during a building and pest inspection in Sydney’s Inner West. The roof interior revealed chemical delignifiaction of roof tile battens to the whole roof frame.
Sometimes called Defibrosis or Hairy Timber, Delignification is the chemical break down of the lignin (glue) in the timber, caused by airborne chemicals. This can be a major safety hazard. Roof tiles can collapse under load eg someone walking on roof or during strong winds. Repair of delignification can be difficult and expensive.

chemical delignification of roof tiles

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Born Sydney, Australia 1974. Graduated High School Yr12 North Sydney Boys High 1991, Graduated UTS Bachelor Communications 1996, Graduated Advanced Diploma in Building Studies & Quantity Surveying 2000. Obtained NSW Builders License 2002. Worked in a range of domestic & commercial construction areas between 1995-2010. Continued professional development in 2010 for building consultant, building inspections, report writing, timber pest modules and training, chemical application etc. Obtained Professional Indemnity Cover & Commenced Sydney PrePurchase Inspections in 2010.